Adoption News.........

November has been designated as National Adoption Month, a time devoted to recognizing and celebrating adoption and adoptive families. On Thursday, November 16th. The National Adoption Month Celebration and Award Ceremony, sponsored by Adoption Rhode Island was held at the State House. This event provides an opportunity to recognize those who have made an outstanding contribution to the adoption community. Three DCYF workers were recognized at this year’s event and presented with Adoption Rhode Island’s Above and Beyond Award.

(The following are excerpted from the ARI Above and Beyond Awards ceremony program.)

Suzan Furtado is a nurturing, caring FSU worker in Region 2 who goes above and beyond to find permanent families for children on her caseload. Recently Sue had a young child on her caseload who has suffered more losses in his young life than most adults can imagine. Sue agonized about how to change the course of his life to one filled with love, support and permanency. Because of her determination, Suzan was able to successfully place this child with his new family and arrange for the support services necessary to prevent the risk of a placement disruption. We all applaud Sue for what she has done for this child and others on her caseload.

Meredith MacDonald is and FSU worker in the DD unit in Region 1. Meredith is a worker and a believer. She clearly believes that there is a family out there for every child, that a child must receive every opportunity to gain permanency and is willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen and happen in a timely manner. A fairly new worker at the Department, Meredith took on the task of proceeding with an out of state adoption with enthusiasm, determination and commitment to doing whatever it might take to make it happen. And make it happen she did! Meredith brings sensitivity, humor ahd a truly caring heart to her job as she works with disabled children in care. She has a knack of gently pushing the children on her caseload towards their potential, helping them to feel proud of themselves. She defines above and beyond.

Kathy Letourneau has been serving the community and the children of our state for many years. As a previous supervisor and worker, Kathy has received the Above and Beyond Award in the past for her outstanding commitment to children and families. In her new position as DCYF’s Interstate Compact Administrator, Kathy continues to reach out to the community to ensure the safety of children in state care. She recently helped to facilitate a successful and timely transition for one of our children who was being placed in another state. Kathy has been described as a “breath of fresh air” in her role as ICPC Administrator. Kathy has in the past and continues to demonstrate her commitment to the work she does and the people she serves.